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Whilst Cornwall is known for its rolling coastlines and sweeping sands, some of the best and most beautiful parts of the county can be found inland. Including quaint villages and country pubs, golden fields strewn with hay bales, woodland walks with meandering streams, rocky moors and heritage mines.
There’s nothing quite like the feeling of winding through country lanes, trees arching above and Cornish hedgerows lining either side of the twisting lanes. Deep in the countryside, you’ll find old Cornish villages, each with their individual characteristics, and usually home to the village pub and church. With interesting names and a unique history, the villages of inner Cornwall differ quite significantly to their nearby coastal villages.
Whether it’s rural farmland, gorse and heather covered moors or mining relics, there’s an abundance of things to do and see. That said, if you do fancy a day at the beach, you’ll never be more than a short drive away from the coast wherever you choose to stay. You’ll also have the added benefit of being close to both coastlines, which whilst very different, are equally beautiful; head to the south coast and discover green hills that roll down to the shoreline, sandy coves and bays and exotic sub-tropical gardens, or explore the north coast, where you’ll find rugged cliffs hugging spectacular beaches and landscape transformed by tin and copper mining.
Truro is Cornwall’s only city, it’s the most southern city in Great Britain. Truro is easily accessible by Train from a number of stations in Mid Cornwall, such as Redruth, Camborne, Par, and St Austell. This direct line from London Paddington arrived in Truro in the 1860’s. With a selection of high street and boutique shops, it’s the best place to shop in Cornwall. Why not consider booking tickets for a show at The Hall for Cornwall while you’re in Cornwall?
Tehidy has over 9 miles of paths and 250 acres of woods and lakes to explore. Stop off at the café after your walk for a coffee and a slice of homemade cake. Tehidy was formally the estate of the Bassets, it was sold in 1915.
Located at Retallack Resort and Spa, the aqua park is a total wipe out style inflatable obstacle course – perfect for a fun packed afternoon (re-opens Saturday 31st March 2018). Retallack is also home to the county’s only FlowRider, bringing you perfect waves, every day of the week!
One of Cornwall’s most famous attractions, and home to two biomes housing a rainforest and Mediterranean eco system. Visit the Eden Project and you’ll also find sculptures, outdoor gardens, trails and children’s activities, ice-skating (Oct – Feb), Hangloose adventures (including England’s longest and fastest zip wire) and a selection of cafes and bars.
One of the most popular botanical gardens in the UK, The Lost Gardens of Heligan was opened in 1992. The members of the Tremayne Family created the gardens from the mid-18th century to the beginning of the 20th century, the gardens are still part of the family’s estate today.
With three trains on site, including a steam train, and many other activities, this is sure to be a delightful day for all the family.
With a full size steam train, visit Bodmin’s famous train line to travel through the countryside by steam!
For those feeling more adventurous, try out one of the cycle trails in mid Cornwall for a fun and active way to explore the countryside.
Try a range of water sports activities at Stithians Lake, from paddle boarding and kayaking, to wind surfing.
In an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is this hidden gem, a spectacular 60 foot waterfall set into the rocks. Take the time to visit this magical place and explore the woodland walks.
For those seeking an element of culture, there’s a range of different cultural attractions throughout Cornwall, well worth visiting, including: Pencarrow House and Gardens, Lanhydrock House, Bodmin Jail and Poldark Mine.
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A festival of light delights the crowds who line the streets to see a parade of giant handmade lanterns. All manner of samba, brass and pipe bands process alongside, accompanied by flamboyant dancers. Further outdoor music performances take place throught the evening and there are many a food and drink stall at which to pick up a tasty snack or warming drink.
Wednesday 21st November 2018
For the first time the Bude Blues, Rhythm and Rock Festival will be taking place in November, featuring Wishbone Ash, Focus and Thorbjorn Risager.
9th, 10th, 11th November 2018
This four day festival takes places throughout the town of Looe, with guest authors and speakers making it the perfect festival for book-lovers.
15th - 18th Novemeber 2018
Celebrate Cornish farming and food at this free event! Get up and close to animals, try your hand at milking, kick off your Christmas shopping at the craft stalls and try some local food and drink.
Saturday 17th November 2018
The 2018 shout will feature more than 20 sea shanty groups for a fun weekend of shanty singing, sailor and pirate themed fancy dress and beer. This year's event will be raising money for Cornwall Air Ambulance and its New Heli Appeal and takes place in various pubs and venues in St Ives.
23rd - 24th November 2018
Healey's Cornish Cyder Farm are hosting the only Christmas market in Cornwall which is set on a working farm. Choose a freshly cut Christmas tree, browse festive gifts and go on a cyder making tour or a tractor ride. There will also be roast dinners and carol singing on the Sundays between these dates.
23rd November - 16th December 2018
Winter is perhaps the most magical time to visit the Eden Project. Not only can you explore the biomes, there's also the opportunity to go ice-skating, watch live storytelling and meet Father Christmas! Why not enjoy some tasty treats and do some Christmas shopping while you're there too? Evenings are a particularly spectacular time to visit the Eden Porjet.
24th Nov - 30th Dec 2018
Head to Fowey for a weekend of festivities! Get your Christmas shopping underway with over 100 local traders selling high quality food, drink and crafts, while enjoying some live music and entertainment.
30th November - 2nd December 2018
Find unique Christmas presents and tasty treats at Flambards Christmas Craft Fayre. Stalls will be set up in various areas of the park, there will be Christmas music to get everyone in the festive spirit and a chance to meet Santa too.
1st - 2nd December 2018
For a trurly magical Christmas experience, take the kids to the winter wonderland grotto at Bedruthan Hotel. Journey through the forgotten ice caves with the elves and Nordic characters, Tomte and Astrid, on your way to meet Santa, before creating your own magical decoration to take home with you.
1st - 23rd December 2018
Join Santa and his elves aboard his magical steam train as you journey through the Cornish countryside. Awaiting Santa on the platform, you'll be entertained with carols performed by Liskeard band. On the hour long journey, children will get to meet and greet Santa, recieve a present and have their photograph taken. The grown-ups aren't forgotten either - you'll recieve a mince pie and seasonal drink!
1st Dec - 24th Dec 2018
Rick Stein, Paul Ainsworth and Nathan Outlaw will be flying the flag for Cornwall at this year’s 10th annual Padstow Christmas Festival. For your chance to see chef demonstartions, head to the festival stage or to the Sharp's Chefs' Theatre - the demonstartions are all free to attend!
Why not make the most of your visit to Padstow and pop into the Chrsitmas market where you will find an array of food goodies and handmade gifts to purchase. There will also be a selection of live music to enjoy, and you can take the children to meet Santa in his grotto!
6th Dec - 9th Dec 2018
Find unique gifts for your loved ones at the Lost Gardens of Heligan Christmas Fair. £2 includes entry to the gardens and access to more than 100 stalls, featuring some of the best local producers, creators and artisans.
8th & 9th December 2018
Created by Cornwall’s award winning highly visual Rogue Theatre, Winter Wood is an adventure for families and those who still believe in Magic.
Pass through the Woodland Gate and follow the twisting path. Let the faeries and woodland spirits lead the way with stories and songs. Follow the wandering path and meet Old Man Winter who will weave a tale and reveal the path to your fantastical destination, an enchanted celebration, and a wondrous festivity of wintry marvels.
8th Dec - 30th Dec 2018
Visit Santa and his elves at the magical grotto at Paradise Park on selected dates in December. Tickets include a gift from Santa and there's no need to book, tickets are on sale on the day from 10am.
15th - 24th December 2018 (selected dates)
Possibly the most well-known and popular Christmas Lights in the county, Moushole combines stunning displays against the backdrop of their gorgeous Cornish fishing harbour to bring real festive magic to all who visit at this special time of year.
15th December - 4th January 2018
The Heartlands Alternative Christmas Market isn't your average festive fayre! There will be live music, a mini silent disco, food & drinks stalls, arts & crafts, workshops and Christmas gifts from local traders.
Sunday 16th December 2018
Each year, the people of Penzance celebrate the Winter solstace with a festival of Cornish tradition, torch processions, and dancing.
21st December 2018
The tradition of Tom Bawcock comes from the feast or famine lifestyle of Cornwall. The story goes that it was just before Christmas; there had been no fish for weeks, the boats couldn’t get out into the raging storm, the village was starving. One man, Tom Bawcock, dared to take his boat out of the harbour’s safety. He returned with enough fish to make fish pie for the whole village.
Today, a festival takes place each year to celebrate Tom Bawcock's bravery. During the festival, Star Gazey pies are eaten in memory of this famous event.
23rd December 2018
Spend New Year's Eve in St Ives for an unforgettable evening at the largest fancy dress party in the county. Ring in the New Year with an unbeatable fireworks display by the sea.
Sunday 31st December 2018
Find out more about New Year's Eve in St Ives here>
Held on the anniversary of the consecration of the Parish Church of St Eia in 1434 AD, Feast Day offers visitors to witness - and even join in with - some centuries-old traditions. A morning precesison led by the Mayor to bless the Well of St Eia. Following this, the Mayor will 'Hurls the Silver Ball' into a crowd of children who assemble on the beach below. The one who returns the ball to the Guildhall steps by midday receives a silver coin. In the afternoon the Mayor then throw pennies from the balcony of the Guildhall for children to collect.
4th February 2019
Boscastle Walking Week is an annual event which has grown in popularity over the years. Organised by local people with local knowledge, everyone is welcome to join the organised walks for a small fee of £3-£5. You'll be guided on some of the most beautiful walks along the Cornish coastline, amid woods and streams and on rambles to secluded waterfalls. Celebrate the history of this stunning scenery as you learn about the famous author Thomas Hardy, who spent a year living in the area.
March 2019
Held at Boconnoc House, Lostwithiel, the 107th edition of the Cornwall Spring Flower Show is a real treat for gardening enthusiasts. The two day event features show gardens, competitive classes and horticultural stands. Enjoy the fabulous displays, pick up plants for your own garden and ask the experts for some tips and advice!
6th-7th April 2019
The small Cornish fishing village of Porthleven hosts its annual Food & Music Festival every April and encorporates street performers, a range of local produce, Samba dancing, theatre, beer marquees, hip-hop dancers, fireworks, Cornish singing & much, much mmore...the list is endless!
19th - 21st April 2019
This annual event takes place on the Isles of Scilly over the May Day bank holiday weekend. With crews coming from all over the South West, races start on Friday,and finals take place on the Monday.
TBC April 2019
Bolster festival in St Agnes celebrates the demise of the legend of Bolster the giant. The community re-enact the life and downful of the giant as they parade through the streets and down to the cliffs overlooking Chapel Porth beach.
5th May 2019
An ancient annual event, Helston Flora Day includes craft stalls and traditional dances throughout the day, where crowds line the streets to watch the procession.
8th May 2019
A colourful tradition that takes place on the first day in May in the quaint harbour town of Padstow. The locals decorate the town with flags, flowers, greenery and a flagpole. The crowds are greeted by the swirling and dancing 'osses' who parade through the town, followed by the 'Teazer' who dances along behind.
Expect lots of dancing, singing and performance.
1st May 2019
Growing in size and popularity, the St Ives Food Festival features top chefs, quality Cornish goods, sandcastle competitions for children and food demonstrations.
10th - 12th May 2019
Celebrating the life and works of this renowned author, the Du Maurier community festival in Fowey has grown into a popular annual event.
11th - 18th May 2018
This free art exhibition sees over 200 art studios open their doors to the public in a week long event across the county. From sculptures, to photography, pottery, and artwork, you can be sure to find something that takes your fancy.
May - June 2019
A ten day festival celebrating life on River Fal. The not-for-profit event encorporates music and drama, arts and heritage, gig racing, swimming and lots more.
Early June 2018 TBC
A truly magical experience in Eden's natural amphitheatre. Previous performers include Jack Johnson, Paolo Nutini, Jessie J, Kaiser Chiefs, The XX and Eddie Izzard to name but a few. Tickets also include a daytime pass to the Eden Project.
June & July 2019
Find out more >
This three-day event is the highlight of Cornwall's agricultural year, showcasing the very best of Cornwall's rural lifestyle. The event is packed with activities, competitions, food and craft demonstrations and stalls, displays, music, and, or course, lots of animals!
6th-8th June 2019
The Falmouth Sea Shanty was founded and is organised by Falmouth Shout. Sea Shanty events aim to preserve and promote the maritime heritage of Falmouth and Cornwall as a whole and are thoroughly enjoyable.
14th - 16th June 2018
Polperro holds an annual 9 day festival with a craft fayre, live music, comedy nights and a procession. The festival is completely free to attend so make sure you visit to experience Polperro at its best.
15th - 22nd June 2019
Golowan Festival is an annual community arts event that celebrates local culture and the social and natural environment. 'Mazey Day' takes place on the Saturday of the festival and guarantees to be a very colourful affair!
23rd - 28th June 2019
Celebrated since 1754, Mevagissey Feast Week is a celebration of food, music, dance and more. With a host of colourful events being held throughout the week, this is a festival not to be missed!
June 2019
Live music, performing arts, endless entertainment for kids, and of course fantastic seafood.
July 2019
Head to Mount Pleasant Eco Park to join in with the park's annual festival celebrating the rich cultures of Africa, Latin America and the caribbean. Enjoy live music, dance and food throughout the weekend.
July 2019
For two weeks only, Adventure 001, supporters of Cornwall Air Ambulance, will be bringing their helicopter experiences to St Ives! Choose from a 6 minute flight from £35 to a 30 minute flight from £96 and take in the incredible views across St Ives bay and beyond!
Dates TBC August 2019
Celebrated since the early 1800s, the Stihtains Show is a fine agricultural event showcasing animals, arts and crafts, food and drink, music and more. Don't miss the Countryside Area and Exhibition Ring.
16th July 2019
Enjoy a week of live music, watersports, competitions, pasty-making, children's sports, raft races and a carnival, all with the backdrop of the famous Georgian harbour.
Date TBC July 2019
Every year Lusty Glaze beach hosts their Sundowner Sessions - an opportunity to watch your favourite artsits perform live in the stunning setting of the natural ampitheatre provided by the cliffs at Lusty Glaze.
Date TBC July 2018
Enjoy a weekend of live music, local food and drink, food demonstrations, crafts and local goods stalls and much more! Don't miss out!
Dates TBC August 2019
Henri Lloyd Falmouth Week is one of the largest sailing regatta's in the south west with more than 300 yachts racing over eight days.There is also a full events line-up which includes entertainment in Falmouth's Events Square and offsite activities such as outdoor film screenings and Red Arrow displays.
August 2019
The Fowey Royal Regatta includes sailing contests, a carnival, the crowning of the Fowey Queen, a pasty eating contest, and as per tradition, a giant pasty which is shared out among the community.
August 2019
Join in with the carnival celebrations for a fun filled day of music, dance and competition!
August 2019
Be part of the UK's biggest surf, skate and music festival at this years 'Boardmasters', held in the popular seaside resort of Newquay.
TBC August 2019
A fun packed day hosted by the RNLI lifeboat Station. See the lifeboats on display and in action on the water with demonstrations featuring one of the HM Coastguard helicpoters!
August 2019
Bude Lifeboat Week includes a range of activities and events, including quizzes, a children’s disco, live music, a craft fair and, on Lifeboat Day (28th) and search and rescue demonstration, a beach treasure hunt, rowing races, canoe polo, a pasty competition and more!
August 2019
Newlyn Fish Festival is the biggest and best of its kind in the UK. Taste some of the finest seafood on offer and enjoy cookery demonstrations, live music and arts and crafts. Local fishmongers take part in the The Cornish fishmonger of the year competition and the popular 'Fishy Trail' is perfect to keep the kids entertained.
TBC August 2019
Top UK and international jazz, blues, swing and boogie bands make up the Bude Jazz festival, with over 120 events including street parades, late night jam sessions and a dance marquee.
August 2019
The World Bellyboard Championships is open to all ages and abilites and takes place at Chapel Porth, St Agnes. The only rules?... No wetsuits or surfboards allowed!
September 2019
A three-day celebration of all things seafoodie! Barbecued fish on the beach; cooking demos from the best of the best; fish merchants selling the freshest seafood imaginable - ready for you to take back to your holiday home and cook up using your newly-learned skills!
September 2019
Celebrating the Cornish pasty and Cornwall's mining heritage, Redruth brings you a cultural three day event. Try your hand at pasty making, join the pilgrimage, and finish off with a concert to remember. Fun for all the family.
September 2019
Now becoming a sellout event, this festival keeps attracting more and more visitors who come to enjoy a wide range of acts, including music, theatre, poetry and visual arts.
14th - 28th September 2019
Always a popular event, the Beer Festival takes places annually at the Princess Pavillions. Admission includes a commemorative festival glass and offers over 250 cask ales, 100 ciders and perries, fruit wines and bottled beers.
TBC October 2019
Celebrate this special time of year at Heligan with an array of harvest-themed events! Enjoy produce tasting, food demonstrations, garden tours, corn dolly making and a harvest trail.
TBC October 2019
Join in with this anual event at Eden celebrating local beers and speciality ciders. Enjoy live music and delicious local food too!
TBC October 2019
Celebrate the start of the Oyster season at Falmouth's Events Square. Get involved with food demonstrations, browse local craft stalls and taste some spectacular seafood!
TBC October 2019